Canada and the Philippines have agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership following talks between Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in Vancouver on Thursday (2 Jul).
The leaders committed to expanding cooperation across trade, defence, energy, infrastructure and regional security, while reaffirming support for a rules-based international order and closer engagement in the Indo-Pacific.
Key developments:
- Canada–Philippines merchandise trade reached C$3.4 billion in 2025, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to a bilateral free trade agreement.
- The leaders welcomed recent defence agreements, including the Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) and Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement (MLSA).
- Canada announced a C$2 million contribution to the Luzon Economic Corridor Partnership to support investment and technical assistance.
- Both countries reaffirmed support for international law, including UNCLOS, and cooperation on maritime security, energy, migration and ASEAN initiatives.
ℹ️ Prime Minister’s Office, Canada
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